Ukraine

Ukraine is a country located in Eastern Europe. It is bordered by Belarus to the north, Russia to the northeast and east, and the Black Sea to the south. Ukraine is the second-largest country in Europe by area, after Russia. The capital and largest city is Kyiv. Ukraine has a rich cultural heritage with influences from various civilizations throughout its history, including the Kievan Rus, Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, and the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The nation is known for its fertile agricultural land, particularly the vast plains of the steppe region, which make it one of the world’s major grain producers. Ukraine’s political landscape has been shaped by its historical ties to Russia and its aspirations towards European integration, leading to significant social and political movements, especially since gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The official language is Ukrainian, and the country has a diverse population, comprised of various ethnic groups. Ukraine’s geopolitical significance has increased in recent years due to its strategic location and ongoing conflicts, particularly with Russia since 2014.